BRITISH prime minister Theresa May's Brexit deal has been approved by the remaining EU-27 after Spain lifted its veto following a series of new clauses covering Gibraltar.

Spanish president Pedro Sánchez says the country is now in a stronger position vis à vis the Rock, whilst members of the opposition in British Parliament – and even in Mrs May's own paty – have accused her of 'betrayal'.

European Union Brexit delegate Michel Barnier and European Council president Donald Tusk announced duing the presentation of Mrs May's deal that after the UK left the 'club', Gibraltar would 'not be included in the territorial scope' of any agreements made between the EU and Britain.

They also stated that any additional deal concerning Gibraltar and its economy would necessitate a 'prior agreement' from Spain.

Sánchez translated this as Spain being 'a fundamental pillar' of the Gibraltar-EU relationship, and pointed out that both the European Council and European Commission had supported Spain over issues relating to the Rock 'as never before'.

He added that during the 'basic negotiations' in the future, Spain and the EU would 'have to talk about joint sovereignty' and 'many other things' – undefined as yet – with Britain.